His infectious enthusiasm and unparalleled love of art and culture make George Neary one of the most notable statesmen for the city of Miami. He has been an integral part of dozens of committees and has served on the boards of many more, including the Miami Design Preservation League and the Miami-Dade Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.

George Neary is officially the Associate Vice President of Cultural Tourism for the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau and represents the city at gay and lesbian events throughout the year. FunMaps grilled George on his city, Miami and Miami Beach.

FunMaps: What do you like best about your city?
GN: There are good-looking guys wherever you are.

FunMaps: Name an event that is not to be missed in your city and why?
GN: Art Deco Weekend- It takes place on Ocean Drive and includes lectures, films, musical attractions and a parade. The beautiful architecture, great restaurants and handsome men everywhere push it over the top.

FunMaps: What is your favorite man-watching spot?
GN: Ocean Drive as the hotties pass by in their speedos and calvins.

FunMaps: Where do you bring guests visiting from out-of-town?
GN: Vizcaya Historic House Museum & Gardens, Museum of Contemporary Art, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, a Miami City Ballet performance or New World Symphony concert

FunMaps: What's the most popular gay hangout in your city?
GN: Lincoln Road, ‘cause it has three gay bars very near by one another

FunMaps: You're on the Board of Advisors for the National Trust for Historic Preservation. For people unfamiliar with regional architecture, what makes South Beach and Miami architecturally relevant?
GN: Miami has the first 20th Century listing in the US Historic Art Deco District. In total, there are more than 800 buildings (all built between1929-1942) famous for their nautical designs and streamlined styling to look like the ocean liners of the 1930s. These structures are recognized for their beautiful lobbies, pastel colors, tile-work and also for the eyebrows above the windows to shade the rooms in the heat of the day. The grand porches and amazing neon at night are also indicative of Miami architecture. Resort architecture of the 1950-60s is another big component of the city’s architectural legacy. The Fontainebleau Hotel and the Eden Roc revolutionized architecture worldwide.

FunMaps: You were one of the people that brought a pride celebration to Miami Beach. How was the inaugural Miami Beach Gay Pride in 2009?
GN: The event exceeded every expectation. We planned on 7,000 attendees and more than 20,000 showed up. People were so happy/grateful/energized to be there. It was meaningful for so many and very emotional. The best part was the legacy couples who had been together for more than 15 years-so many men & women showcasing their relationships which was very meaningful to see.

FunMaps: What do you have planned for Miami Pride 2010?
GN: We meet monthly and are planning bigger and better for next year. Source Events is planning a cruise to leave the day after Pride for the Caribbean. Plus, a dance area will be included and family-geared events, too.

Check out one of George's top picks, Palace.

FunMaps: What are your favorite spots in your city for…

Shopping?
GN: Lincoln Road/Collins Avenue
Bar?
GN: Halo/Palace/Score/Twist
Restaurant?
GN: Anywhere along Lincoln Road-there are so many
Place to Hang?
GN: 12th Street Beach and watch the shirtless guys play volleyball -hot!